Authoritative source of information on Psychological Operations (PSYOP) or as it is now called Military Information Support Operations (MISO). Written by a retired senior Army Officer and former Honorary Colonel of the PSYOP Regiment.

Friday, April 11, 2014

Senior PSYOP

Over the years I’ve blogged about world events and many exotic
locations. Today’s subject matter is much more close to home. In June of 2010
my wife and I moved into an “Over 55 Community”. I prefer to call it El Pueblo
Para Los Viejos.

Since many of my fellow residents are fully retired, they
often have nothing much to do besides play golf (which I don’t). This also
means there is a crisis of some sort going on all the time.

They range from what do about the deer population (one
jumped over a 3 foot fence to munch on my roses on our patio) to swimming hours
for children, to whether or not we need a new gym.

The latest brouhaha is about changing the Community’s
extensive set of by-laws. The substance is not important, but I thought some of
leaflets being dropped in my mailbox were pretty good PSYOP/MISO examples and
that it was worthwhile to share.

First of all the creators of this leaflet knew their
audience and knew them well. They were intimately aware of past crises and
things that people are passionate about.

Golf and Tennis are two key activities here, so focusing on
them was a great idea. The cartoons are easy to understand and put the reader
in the picture immediately.

The other two address recent controversies and are equally
well done.

The text is minimal. It’s in larger type making it easier to
read and showing familiarity with the audience.

The desired action stands out – BIGGER BOLDER LETTERS!

I should add that the campaigns (on both sides) have
featured flyers, e-mails and letters to the editor of the Community Newspapers.

Bottom Line: Unlike many other skills you might learn in the
service, your PSYOP/MISO background will be valuable to you throughout your
life.